It depends on the person but I personally definitely agree

I don’t think something has to be solely defined by its story to make it a good story. Persona 3 and nier automata are two of my favorite works of fiction, something can be two things at once

I’m ok with the no damage boss fights, time trials depends on the game. If it’s crash or sonic which have elements of time trials built into their design then I think that’s fine. Everything else I agree with though

Hat in time got me through an emotionally abusive relationship, I’ll always treasure the solace I got from that game. It’s also just well designed and still my favorite 3d platformer